A groundbreaking short film on domestic violence has been launched by Women’s Aid Antrim, Ballymena, Carrickfergus, Larne and Newtownabbey (ABCLN).

Titled My Story, the documentary-style film features the personal stories of women who have suffered domestic violence.

The production follows the ABCLN group’s first film, Don’t Silence the Violence, released year in collaboration with the Ulster Orchestra and Causeway Media.

The short film illustrates the harrowing cycle of violence a woman experiences at the hands of her partner.

Following the success of the initial documentary, the women involved in its production wanted to reach out further to other victims.

My Story takes viewers behind the scenes of the making of Don’t Silence The Violence, as well as documenting the support available through Women’s Aid.

Both films have been supported by Japan Tobacco Industry (JTI).

Rosemary Magill from Women’s Aid ABCLN said: “Victims of domestic violence are isolated through their experiences of violence. This isolation and fear are tools that perpetrators use to keep women trapped in violent, abusive relationships.

“The women who informed the making of these films understood this very well and are reaching out to other women to offer support and tell them they are not alone. Their message is Don’t Silence the Violence – Speak Up, Step Out, We are here to listen and help.”

The project was supported by South Antrim MLA, Pam Cameron. “In Northern Ireland there is one domestic incident every 19 minutes of every day; this is an alarming figure,” she said.

“The Women’s Aid groups have been at the forefront in tackling domestic violence and supporting victims in an empowering and positive manner. Domestic violence is hugely traumatic for victims and their families and My Story is necessary reminder of the support that Women’s Aid can provide for those that need it.”

Ulster Orchestra’s Jonathan Simmance, who worked on the project along with his colleague Sam Staunton, added: “I have had my eyes opened to the realities and prevalence of domestic violence,and I am honoured to have worked on both films, so that many more people can also be enlightened.”

My Story is available to view on Women’s Aid website www.womens-aid.org.uk and also on YouTube: http://youtu.be/YyuQvlQwiI8